When people think of fall colors, Florida isn’t the first state that comes to mind. But if you know where to look, you’ll find hidden pockets of autumn beauty — golden cypress trees, fiery-red maples, and peaceful trails framed by soft amber leaves. Fall in Florida might be short-lived, but it’s stunning in its own, subtropical way. Below are the ten best places to see fall foliage in Florida in 2025 — from the Panhandle’s forested hills to charming small towns that glow with seasonal color.
If you want the best fall color in Florida, Torreya State Park is your top choice. Located along the Apalachicola River, this park offers some of the most dramatic elevation changes in the state — and that means more hardwood trees and brighter colors.
You’ll see maples, sourwoods, dogwoods, and hickories turn shades of gold, orange, and red. The high bluffs give you sweeping views over the river valley, perfect for photos.
- Best time to visit: Late October – Mid November
- Tip: Go early in the morning for misty views or visit during sunset for golden lighting.
- Visit Torreya State Park (Official Florida State Parks website)
2. Falling Waters State Park (Chipley, FL)
This park is famous for Florida’s tallest waterfall, which drops into a 100-foot sinkhole — and during fall, the area is surrounded by orange and crimson leaves. The mix of maple and sweetgum trees makes this spot a hidden gem for fall photography.
You’ll also find shaded trails, picnic areas, and a peaceful boardwalk that makes it easy to explore without crowds.
- Best time to visit: Early – Mid November
- Tip: Bring your camera or phone tripod — the contrast of the waterfall with the fall foliage makes for incredible shots.
- Falling Waters State Park Information
3. Alfred B. Maclay Gardens State Park (Tallahassee, FL)
Tallahassee has one of the best natural color displays in Florida, and Maclay Gardens is the crown jewel. The gardens blend lush landscapes with maple, elm, and oak trees that shift into golden hues during fall.
Walk around Lake Hall for mirrored reflections of colorful trees on calm water. The park also offers biking and kayaking, so you can enjoy the scenery from different angles.
- Best time to visit: Late October – Early November
- Tip: Arrive on a weekday morning for fewer crowds and soft sunlight filtering through the trees.
- Alfred B. Maclay Gardens State Park
4. Ocala National Forest (Central Florida)
Ocala National Forest is one of Florida’s largest and most diverse natural areas. While much of it is pine forest, you’ll also find cypress swamps and hardwood hammocks that transform with subtle golden and orange tones during the fall.
The Juniper Springs and Silver Glen Springs areas are especially beautiful this time of year — you get the contrast of crystal-clear water with the warm shades of the trees.
- Best time to visit: Late October – Mid November
- Tip: Take a scenic drive down State Road 19 or SR 40, both routes lined with peaceful forest views.
- Explore Ocala National Forest
5. Lake Wales Ridge State Forest (Central Florida)
Located in Polk County, this hidden gem offers a unique ecosystem with sandhill ridges, oak forests, and seasonal wildflowers. During fall, the oak trees turn rustic shades of brown and gold, and the peaceful hiking trails make it a perfect weekend escape.
- Best time to visit: Early – Mid November
- Tip: Visit the Walk-in-the-Water Tract — it’s less crowded and has several scenic overlooks perfect for fall photography.
6. Blackwater River State Forest (Milton, FL)
Blackwater River State Forest, near the Alabama border, offers one of the most colorful fall landscapes in the Panhandle. The forest’s sweetgum, hickory, and maple trees turn shades of orange and deep red, especially along the riverbanks.
You can kayak down the Blackwater River and watch the reflection of golden leaves on the clear water — it’s one of Florida’s most peaceful fall experiences.
- Best time to visit: Late October – Mid November
- Tip: Take the Juniper Creek Trail, a 7-mile hike that offers great photo spots with fall color all around.
7. Apalachicola National Forest (Near Tallahassee, FL)
This massive national forest is another North Florida gem for fall explorers. You’ll find oak and sweetgum trees mixed with longleaf pines, creating a unique blend of green and amber colors.
For the best views, drive through State Road 65 or explore the Camel Lake Recreation Area, where cypress trees glow golden in the fall light.
- Best time to visit: Late October – Early November
- Tip: Bring binoculars — this forest is also home to plenty of birds and wildlife that come out during cooler fall mornings.
- Apalachicola National Forest (U.S. Forest Service)
8. Edward Ball Wakulla Springs State Park (Wakulla Springs, FL)
One of Florida’s most beautiful natural springs, Wakulla Springs also puts on a colorful show in the fall. The cypress trees surrounding the spring shift into shades of copper and bronze, reflecting beautifully in the water.
You can take a guided riverboat tour to see the foliage from the water while spotting manatees and wading birds. It’s the perfect mix of wildlife and autumn color.
- Best time to visit: Early – Mid November
- Tip: The historic Wakulla Springs Lodge offers cozy overnight stays — ideal for a weekend fall getaway.
- Edward Ball Wakulla Springs State Park
9. Washington Oaks Gardens State Park (Palm Coast, FL)
Located between the Atlantic Ocean and the Matanzas River, this park combines formal gardens, coastal scenery, and fall colors all in one place. The live oaks, maples, and camphor trees turn subtle shades of gold and red in November.
It’s also a popular photography location thanks to its coquina rock shoreline and peaceful garden paths.
- Best time to visit: Late October – Mid November
- Tip: Pair your visit with a sunrise at Flagler Beach, only a few minutes away.
- Washington Oaks Gardens State Park
10. Ravine Gardens State Park (Palatka, FL)
If you want a mix of gardens, walking trails, and fall scenery, Ravine Gardens State Park is a hidden treasure. The park’s steep ravines and suspension bridges make for incredible photo ops, especially when the maples and dogwoods begin changing color.
There’s even a driving loop that lets you enjoy the views from your car if you don’t want to hike.
- Best time to visit: Early – Mid November
- Tip: Visit just after sunrise for soft golden lighting in the ravine — it’s perfect for Instagram-worthy shots.
- Ravine Gardens State Park
Final Thoughts
Florida may not be famous for fall foliage, but if you plan your timing right, you’ll find some truly beautiful autumn spots. From Torreya’s bluffs in the Panhandle to Wakulla’s glowing cypress trees, the Sunshine State offers plenty of peaceful escapes filled with warm fall colors.
If you’re planning a 2025 fall road trip, map out these 10 locations — start in the north and work your way south. You’ll see a different side of Florida that most people never experience.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q1: Does Florida have fall foliage?
Yes! Northern and Central Florida show beautiful fall colors from late October to mid-November.
Q2: What is the best place to see fall colors in Florida?
Torreya State Park is the top spot for vibrant autumn foliage and scenic river views.
Q3: When do leaves change in Florida?
Usually from late October to early November, depending on weather.
Q4: Can I see fall colors in Central Florida?
Yes — places like Ocala National Forest and Lake Wales Ridge show subtle but lovely color changes.
Q5: Are there fall drives in Florida?
Definitely! Try Highway 90 near Tallahassee or State Road 19 through Ocala National Forest for scenic routes.
